An empty place pops up on unkempt trail.
I peep inside and see a gravel path
disheveled, overgrown with uncut grass
untrodden ,save for birds in search of worms.
The wooden lions pose eternal guard.
They stand no longer fierce. The paint is gone
and golden manes are tarnished . Beauty fades !
Some apples dangle half ripe from a branch
and add some life to this deserted place.
I push my way through bushes, duck tall shrubs,
approach a pool which once gave life to fish
but now I see a sunken pit of dirt .
A willow tree sequesters at far end
and crickets make a concert free to all.

~Agatha Lai~